Polyurethane in construction
Polyurethane (PUR or PU) is a polymer formed by the reaction of isocyanates and polyols. Fully cured polyurethane products are inert and non-toxic.
The properties of polyurethane are influenced by the types of isocyanates and polyols used to make them. They can range from tough or rigid materials, through to flexible materials.
Polyurethane can be used to make products that are both strong and lightweight, as well as being durable and highly versatile. It is a key ingredient in several types of high-efficiency insulation materials (such as rigid foam insulation panels), For more information, see Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
It is also used for paints and other coatings, microcellular foam seals and gaskets, wheels and tyres, sealants, binders and adhesives.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Composites.
- Cork flooring.
- Curtain wall systems.
- Expanding foam.
- Nylon.
- Plastic.
- Polycarbonate plastic.
- Polyethylene.
- Polymeric flooring.
- Polymers.
- Polystyrene.
- Polyurethane spray foam in structurally insulated panels and composite structures.
- Polyvinyl chloride PVC.
- Rubber.
- Sealants.
- Using CO2 to make construction products and materials.
Featured articles and news
Local leaders gain new powers to support local high streets
High Street Rental Auctions to be introduced from December.
Infrastructure sector posts second gain for October
With a boost for housebuilder and commercial developer contract awards.
Sustainable construction design teams survey
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Design: Your Voice Matters.
COP29; impacts of construction and updates
Amid criticism, open letters and calls for reform.
The properties of conservation rooflights
Things to consider when choosing the right product.
Adapting to meet changing needs.
London Build: A festival of construction
Co-located with the London Build Fire & Security Expo.
Tasked with locating groups of 10,000 homes with opportunity.
Delivering radical reform in the UK energy market
What are the benefits, barriers and underlying principles.
Information Management Initiative IMI
Building sector-transforming capabilities in emerging technologies.
Recent study of UK households reveals chilling home truths
Poor insulation, EPC knowledge and lack of understanding as to what retrofit might offer.
Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment
Overview, regulations, detail calculations and much more.
Why the construction sector must embrace workplace mental health support
Let’s talk; more importantly now, than ever.
Ensuring the trustworthiness of AI systems
A key growth area, including impacts for construction.
Foundations for the Future: A new model for social housing
To create a social housing pipeline, that reduces the need for continuous government funding.
Mutual Investment Models or MIMs
PPP or PFI, enhanced for public interest by the Welsh Government.
Key points and relevance to construction of meeting, due to reconvene.